Families Suffolk Magazine: Jan/Feb 2023 - Digital Edition

Welcome

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families! We wish you the very best for the months ahead.

It’s hard for everyone to keep New Year’s resolutions – especially children. Download our free colour-in Reward Chart which may help to keep your children engaged.

Whilst everyone feels like hibernating in winter, getting outside is good for us so, to motivate you, we’ve got some ideas for seasonal family activities as well as some projects which will help welcome more wildlife to your garden. And, once you’re back indoors? We have some great ideas for making family nights in special.

Finally, in this issue, we have Britannica Magazine subscriptions and other goodies to giveaway! Apply inside the magazine. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Get in touch

Congratulations

opening a new

which will explore the Suffolk environment past and present; the changes and challenges impacting our local area and what we can all do make a difference today.

Suffolk’s Green Story: Reflect I Learn I Act will explore several themes ranging from the natural environment to agricultural change, through to the impact of our domestic homes and what we can all do to slow down climate change and choose greener ways of living. Come along to one of our branches to enjoy some craft activities inspired by the natural world and Suffolk’s Green Story.

Image (c) Felixstowe Times

ride

What does Britten Pears Arts offer families and young people in 2023 -

The Red House, Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings

The Red House was delighted to win Suffolk Museums prestigious Family Friendly Award at the end of 2022. As we begin a new year, Britten Pears Arts continue to offer a range of free musical and historical opportunities for families and young people across both sites.

Mini Music Makers Mini Music Makers is a friendly and fun session of music and play activities for 0-5-year-olds that takes place at The Red House, Aldeburgh. These sessions, which include exploring a museum environment, singing and creative play, are great for little ones to learn social skills, turn-taking, sharing and following instructions.

Music Makers

In February half-term and throughout the year, older children can engage with music at Snape Maltings in a free afternoon of music making, exploring musical styles from jazz fusion to orchestral music.

Group A

Group A is a fun and engaging singing group for young people in Suffolk. Working with 8-18-yearolds, Group A consists of vocal performance groups that rehearse and perform throughout the year.

Family Activities

Over the school holidays The Red House offers a variety of activities for families of all ages. From hands on music making in the exhibition gallery, to exploring the site as a family with the 2023 Family Activity Book. Keep an eye on the website for details of larger 2023 events, such as the Audio Easter Egg Hunt and May Half Term Family Garden Days!

www.brittenpearsarts.org

We take happiness seriously

At St Joseph’s we support the intellectual, spiritual, physical and emotional growth of every student.

Children who thrive are the happiest of all.

Prep School

Thurs 2 Feb & Sat 13 May

Whole School

Sat 18 March

Join us for our Prep and Senior School Open Days. Family tours also available, to find out more please visit stjos.co.uk or email admissions@stjos.co.uk

Independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2–19. Nursery open all year round

Getting the best from online tutoring

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

SATS: getting in the know

By Jessica Joan

With Covid and the move to online platforms, tutoring has become more accessible, with more options and opportunities available. As a result, over fifteen percent of UK children are now receiving private tuition. But how can you get the best results?

READ MORE

Shared reading and language development

By Dr Jamie Lingwood

In May, Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2) pupils will take their SATS exams. Yet, from their very first day at school, children are being trained to be able to perform in preparation for these assessments. So what support can you give at home?

READ MORE

Early language development is incredibly important and sitting down to read with your child gives them a big advantage in this area. But what are the best ways of helping your child to enjoy shared reading and why is it so beneficial?

READ MORE

Top children’s book picks for 2023

Plan some great reading for your child with our children’s book suggestions, all just published or due to be published this year.

DJ Baby Funky novelty board book featuring spinning record turntables! Ages 1+.

Ten Little Bugs

Part traditional counting rhyme, part fun-filled story - perfect for sharing. Ages 3-5.

Grandad’s Pride

Beautiful follow-up to Grandad’s Camper, filled with heart and purpose. Ages 3-6.

The Library Fish Learns to Read

Charming picture book about the unusually literary fish. Ages 4-8.

Weird but true! 2023

National Geographic annual loaded with brain bending facts and photos. Ages 7-10.

A Dragon Realm Adventure

Special World Book Day story (£1) in the actionpacked series. Ages 8+.

Dave Pigeon Bookshop Mayhem

Special World Book Day story (£1) - a funny, joyful romp. Ages 6+.

Valentine Crow & Mr Death

Distinctive, warm and funny. From highlyacclaimed Jenni Spangler. Ages 9+.

Yetis are the Worst!

Gilbert the Goblin’s new adventure – finding the legendary yeti. Ages 4-8.

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex meaning a child is unable to regulate their own emotions.

What is a tantrum?

Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. Tantrums can happen right into adulthood but adults learn to self-soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills yet. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause

or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better connected as they grow. READ MORE

Dangerous things (you should let your child do)

Let them experience ‘age-appropriate risk’ under adult supervision AT ALL TIMES. Research shows that it’s essential for a balanced childhood.

Use power tools

The use of a power tool is an important life skill that is good to learn early.

Spend an hour blindfolded

Challenge your child to live blindfolded – it’s fun and builds empathy.

Play with fire

It’s best children learn about fire safely with you.

Throw rocks

Children can’t resist throwing - and it can be managed safely.

Use a pocketknife

A life skill that develops with experience, whittling is a fun introduction.

Climb a tree

Another irresistible urge for children - fun and beneficial when done safely.

Blow up a bottle of coke

A classic science experiment which is spectacular - but messy!

Play conkers

This ancient British game can be safely played if done correctly.

Use a bow and arrow

Though potentially hazardous, it’s great for developing situational awareness.

Family meals made easier

What is batch cooking?

Cooking multiple meals at one time and then storing for later use.

Food is cooked in a ‘batch’, then stored in airtight containers. Meals are stored in portions for ease.

Batch cooking often involves doubling, tripling or quadrupling ingredients.

What you need

Big pans - you’re cooking bulk so ensure you have enough big pans to cope.

Large mixing bowls to bring all those ingredients together.

Storage containers and resealable freezer bags. Choose the right size for your family.

Labels. Keep track of what you’ve got and when you cooked it.

Intro to batch cooking

Benefits of batch cooking

Saves money - buying food in bulk is cheaper. Saves time – you don’t need to cook every evening.

You are cooking when you want to and not when you have to.

It’s healthier as you always have a tasty nutritious meal on hand.

Top tips

Set aside a few hours so you’re not rushed.

Prepare ingredients - weighing, measuring and chopping first will make the job easier.

Clean as you go and, if making several recipes at once, tidy up as you go too.

Cool before you freeze; food will keep better and save fridge energy.

Meal planning

This 2 minute video from The Batch Lady shows exactly what you’ll need to start batch cooking freezer meals.

This short video from The Batch Lady offers a great rundown on how to plan weekly meals for your family.

Best

cooking recipes

Macaroni

New online children’s physio directory

Parents wanting to locate a local children’s physiotherapist can now use an online directory launched by Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.

The majority of children’s physiotherapists work in the NHS. Your GP can advise about local services and make a referral, if appropriate. However, some parents choose to seek advice and treatment from an independent or private physiotherapist either instead of, or to supplement, NHS care. Many children need support from a physiotherapist at some time during their childhood. This may be sought for advice and treatment relating to posture and movement or for acute injuries.

Qualified children’s physiotherapists are regulated, have additional expertise in child development and childhood conditions and the right skill base and knowledge to deliver the best care for babies and children. Find out more HERE

WHAT IS HEALTHY START?

YOU COULD GET:

£4.25 each week of pregnancy (from the 10th week of your pregnancy) £8.50 each week for children from birth to 1 year old (£442 a year*) £4.25 each week for children between 1 and 4 years old (£221 a year total of £663*)

Over £1000 over 4 years* *costings based on 2021 data. Your money will stop after your child’s 4th birthday, or if you no longer receive benefits.

How do you look after your mental health and wellbeing?

That’s the basis for a new campaign for 2023 which focuses on 12 ‘emotional needs’ – one for each month – to bring you practical tips, people’s stories and support to keep you well.

Be Well, Feel Well: A Healthier Suffolk in 2023, is a partnership between Suffolk Mind, Public Health and Communities and a range of community groups teaming up to focus on ways for you to be well throughout the year. Jon Neal, Chief Executive, Suffolk Mind Control within our lives

To meet the need for control, we need to feel that we have some say over our lives and personal choices. It can be helpful to recognise what we can take personal responsibility for and what we can influence and accept that there are some things which we cannot control. www.infolink.suffolk.gov.uk

The Local Welfare Assistance Scheme (LWAS) helps those experiencing financial hardship and can provide financial help, guidance and advice. Find out more and apply online at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/LWAS

For more support and money saving advice, visit: www.suffolk.gov.uk/costofliving

Managing children’s anxiety

Be fully present

Phone alerts and notifications are constantly distracting and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without distraction - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together and are fully available.

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Limit screen time

Research shows that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, whilst lost time interacting with family/ peers can impact their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure content is ageappropriate, communicate about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Spend time in nature

Children absorb emotions like sponges and overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel their anxiety. If your child is worrying about the future, use mindfulness to bring them back to the present moment—’right here, right now, with you, all is well.’ Tell them that you love them no matter what.

Nature-deficit disorder (NDD) can contribute to higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. But the good news is, it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK and they provide the perfect setting for free family activities.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her ten top tips.

Managing children’s anxiety

Encouraging reading

Sharing feelings

Reading is relaxing, distracting and a good alternative to screen time. A 2009 University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension.

Can’t fall asleep?

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense we are fully available. Sitting somewhere that they have to pass by when they return from being elsewhere and gently inviting them to join us can be a good start. Listen intently without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’

Enrol on a course

Creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music). Try placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. For the busy mind, try counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2 etc) over and over.

Mindfulness apps/recorded meditations can help adults and children to relax and unwind but nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher which teaches key mindfulness skills. However, if, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, do seek medical advice from a GP.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her ten top tips.

Mortgage Advice

Many people are concerned about the increases in the cost

of living, and one of the biggest financial commitments you will have in your lifetime is a mortgage.

Suffolk Mum and Independent Mortgage Advisor Sharon Wright shares some professional mortgage advice.

When should you start to review your mortgage?

You can look to review your mortgage six to seven months before your current mortgage deal is due to end. This will give you an idea of what rates are available and the potential new mortgage repayments. It is important to find out what new mortgage rates your current lender will offer you too so that you can compare this to the other lenders. Each lender has their own criteria so it’s worth checking to see how early your lender can offer a new rate.

Your Home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Wolsey Mortgage Company Ltd is an appointed representative of The Right Mortgage Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Whether you stay with your existing lender or look to remortgage to another provider, reviewing your options months before your fixed or tracker rate ends means that you could secure a new deal that protects you from further interest rises. Many lenders’ offers are valid for six months and if the rates come down then you could review this again before your deal ends.

READER OFFER

I usually charge a fee of £275 for a mortgage or remortgage, which covers all administration costs. However, the initial consultation is free and the fee is only payable after a mortgage offer has been produced.

For readers of Families Suffolk Magazine I will reducing this fee to JUST £99 saving you £176.00.

Please use discount code: FamiliesSuffolk

For more information or to book a FREE CONSULTATION with Sharon Email: sharon@wolseymortgage.co.uk Call: 07955 199219

For more information about Wolsey Mortgage Company visit: www.wolseymortgage.co.uk

We take happiness seriously

At St Joseph’s we support the intellectual, spiritual, physical and emotional growth of every student.

Children who thrive are the happiest of all.

Prep School

Thurs 2 Feb & Sat 13 May

Whole School

Sat 18 March

Join us for our Prep and Senior School Open Days. Family tours also available, to find out more please visit stjos.co.uk or email admissions@stjos.co.uk

Independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2–19. Nursery open all year round